What we learned Thursday night

18 Oct 13

The Seahawks are the NFC’s best

Five takeaways from the Thursday night game, won by the Seahawks, everyone will be talking about Friday:

1. Unleash the beast. Seahawks RB Marshawn Lynch didn’t have a standout performance from a statistical perspective. Lynch ran for 91 yards and a touchdown. But, his ability to run with power continues to mesmerize.

One particular run will define the Lynch’s evening. Lynch ran off left guard. Arizona DE Darnell Dockett scraped across the line. The two met head-on in the hole, and it was the much larger Dockett who got the worst of the exchange. Dockett’s helmet flew through the air, while Lynch continued to gain yards.

Marshawn Lynch doesn't hate you. He feels sorry for you because you're in his way, and he doesn't know why.

2. Russell Wilson is special. The second-year QB did make a few mistakes throughout the game, but he also made a few spectacular throws. Wilson threw three touchdown passes. His best throw may have been a quick dump off. Wilson was under pressure. He was being hogtied to the ground — his knee precariously close to the ground — and still pitched a laser.

IMO, great QBs are defined by their ability to create when plays break down completely. Wilson almost gets TOO creative, but he's got it.

3. Was acquiring Carson Palmer a mistake? Arizona and new head coach Bruce Arians wanted an experienced QB to lead the team. The franchise hitched its wagon to Palmer, and it’s been a bumpy ride. Palmer threw a pair of interceptions and made a few more poor passes throughout the contest. The Cardinals have to be second-guessing their decision.

This is almost certainly Arians' only shot to be a head coach. And Palmer is blowing it for him.

4. Seahawks are best team in the NFC. Seattle is now 6-1. They’ll have sole possession of the best record in the NFC for at least two days. If New Orleans falters against Buffalo Sunday, the Seahawks will be alone as the elite team in their conference.

Congrats to the @Seahawks for going 6-1 for the first time in franchise history!

5. A triumphant return. Arizona DE Calais Campbell left the Sunday’s game against the 49ers on a stretcher with tingling in his extremities. Campbell was back on the field Thursday, and he was dominant.

Calais Campbell removed on a stretcher four days ago. Makes huge play on 4th down. These guys aren't human.